Viridiana [4K UHD]

Studio: The Criterion Collection

Mar 30, 2026 Web Exclusive By Hays Davis Photography by The Criterion Collection

When asked about his intentions when creating the controversial 1961 film Viridiana, filmmaker Luis Buñuel wittily offered, “I didn’t deliberately set out to be blasphemous, but then Pope John XXIII is a better judge of such things than I am.” With some scenes and images containing subtly pointed messaging, along with one moment that is uproariously unsubtle, Viridiana was banned in Spain (where it wasn’t shown until 1977) and denounced by the Vatican while winning the Palme d’Or at the 1961 Cannes Film Festival. Featuring a memorable cast rumored to have included beggars recruited from Madrid’s outskirts, Viridiana continues to be as relevant, absorbing and daring as ever.

Shortly before taking her vows, novice nun Viridiana is informed by her Mother Superior that her older uncle and benefactor has requested a visit to his estate, and she compels Viridiana to go. Though Viridiana’s utter indifference to her uncle is clear, she respects the suggestion and travels to meet with her sole remaining family member. Her uncle, struck by Viridiana’s resemblance to his late wife (who died on their wedding night), finds himself deeply attracted to his niece and, near the end of her visit, lets her know of his desire for them to be married. Tragic consequences lead to Viridiana turning away from the convent and welcoming a group of paupers to live on the estate, where their worst impulses move them to trample Viridiana’s positive influence.

The Criterion Collection’s excellent release of the film includes a new 4K digital restoration, with separate 4K UHD and Blu-ray discs, plus interviews with actor Silvia Pinal and film scholar Richard Porton and excerpts from a 1964 episode of Cinéastes de notre temps on Buñuel’s early career.

(www.criterion.com/films/373-viridiana)

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